USS New Orleans bow discovered after decades on the seafloor
- In November 1942, the USS New Orleans was struck by a Japanese torpedo, significantly damaging the vessel.
- The crew used coconut logs to create a temporary bow, allowing them to sail in reverse for repairs in Australia.
- Recently, researchers have located the severed bow of the USS New Orleans in the Solomon Islands, prompting reflection on the crew's heroic efforts.
In 1942, during World War II, the USS New Orleans suffered severe damage when it was hit by a Japanese torpedo during the Battle of Tassafaronga off Guadalcanal, resulting in the loss of a significant portion of the ship and the deaths of over 180 crew members. The crew's ingenuity allowed them to jury-rig a makeshift bow using coconut logs and navigate 1,800 miles in reverse to Australia for repairs. After the war, the USS New Orleans continued to serve and played a vital role in various campaigns across the Pacific, earning 17 battle stars before being finally retired and decommissioned. Recently, researchers conducted seafloor mapping operations in the Solomon Islands and discovered the bow of the USS New Orleans, which had been missing since the battle in 1942. Detailed imaging by a collaborative team of scientists and historians during the Nautilus Live expedition confirmed the wreckage’s identity, highlighting both the historical and archaeological significance of the site, also known for the numerous naval battles fought there.